Escape the hustle and bustle of Rome in favor of the tranquil countryside on a full-day trip to the Apostolic Palace and Castel Gandolfo. On this self-guided tour, you’ll take the train to Castel Gandolfo — home to the revered Apostolic Palace — and enjoy a guided tour of the Pope’s ornate summer residence. With an audio guide, you’ll learn about the building’s rich history and see opulent chambers decorated elaborately. Admire highlights such as the Bronze Door, and numerous chapels adorned with religious artwork, before returning to Rome by train.

Highlights

Full-day independent trip to the Apostolic Palace in Castel Gandolfo from Rome

Take an audio guided tour of opulent chambers adorned with religious artworks

See highlights such as the Bronze Door and the Regal Staircase

Learn about the history of the Pope's summer residence as you explore

Round-trip train transport from Rome is included

What You Can Expect

Greet your host at St. Peter’s train station in central Rome and collect your round-trip train tickets. After boarding the train destined for Castel Gandolfo, relax during the hour-long journey into the Roman countryside.

On arrival in Castel Gandolfo — positioned prettily in the Lazio region of Italy — you’ll head straight to the Apostolic Palace to begin an audio guided tour of the Pope’s summer residence.

As you explore the opulent rooms of the palace, you’ll learn about the building’s history and find out why it is considered part of the Vatican City — the world’s smallest country.

After exploring the palace at your own pace — guests usually find that 1.5-2 hours is enough time — spend the time until your train relaxing in the picturesque town of Castel Gandolfo. Your tour concludes with your train journey back to Rome.